What does Ephesians 3:9 mean?

Explanation

Ephesians 3:9 is part of a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the church of Ephesus.

In this verse, Paul speaks about the revelation of a mystery that was hidden since the creation of the world but now has been disclosed to the saints.

This mystery involves the purpose and plan of God, which includes bringing together both Jews and Gentiles into one body through Jesus Christ.

Paul highlights his role in explaining God's plan to both the people of his time and future generations.

The "fellowship of the mystery" refers to the idea that believers are united and participate in this divine plan.

The mention of God creating all things through Jesus Christ touches on early Christian beliefs about the pre-existence and creative work of Christ.

Historical Context

Paul likely wrote the book of Ephesians while he was imprisoned in Rome, around AD 60-62.

During these times, the division between Jews and Gentiles was significant.

The revealing of the mystery of the inclusion of the Gentiles in God’s salvation plan was a groundbreaking and somewhat controversial idea.

It came against the backdrop of a Jewish-centric understanding of God's promises.

Paul’s mission included bridging this divide by spreading the inclusive message of the Christian gospel.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse reveals several key concepts:

The mystery of God's plan, which is the incorporation of the Gentiles into the family of God alongside Israel. 2.

The eternal nature of God's purpose, which was hidden throughout ages but is now made manifest. 3.

The role of Jesus Christ as the mediator and agent of creation, affirming his divinity and pre-existence. 4.

The apostolic responsibility to disclose this mystery to all nations.

Different denominations interpret Paul's mention of "all things created through Jesus" with various emphases on Christ's role in creation, ranging from a more metaphorical to a literal interpretation.

Practical Applications

Practically, this verse can be applied in several ways:

• Unity: Emphasizing the importance of unity and inclusivity among believers, regardless of social or ethnic backgrounds.
• Evangelism: Encouraging believers to share God's plan of salvation through Jesus Christ with others.
• Purpose: Understanding and participating in God's plan and purpose for humanity can give one a sense of direction and belonging in the wider narrative of Christian faith.

Cross-References

• Colossians 1:26-27: "[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:"
• Romans 16:25-26: "Now to him that is of power to stablish you according to my gospel, and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery, which was kept secret since the world began,"
• John 1:3: "All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made."

Language Study

The original Greek language offers some insights into key terms of Ephesians 3:9:

• Fellowship (κοινωνία koinōnia): This word often means sharing or participation, indicating that the mystery is something that believers are included in and partake of.
• Mystery (μυστήριον mystērion): In the New Testament context, a mystery refers to a divine truth that was once concealed but is now revealed through Christ and the gospel.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of other religious systems and cultural myths of Paul's time, the concept of mystery religions, which included initiation into secret rites and knowledge, was prevalent.

However, the Christian mystery that Paul discusses differs significantly, as it was not about esoteric secrets for a select few but a revealed truth available to all who would believe in Jesus Christ.

Scientific Perspectives

This verse does not directly address scientific perspectives.

However, the reference to God creating "all things by Jesus Christ" can be a starting point for discussions on the relationship between faith and science, especially in the context of origins.

It speaks to the belief in a purposeful and intelligent cause behind the universe from a Christian theological standpoint.

Commentaries

Commentaries on this verse often focus on the formerly hidden plan of God that is now disclosed.

Matthew Henry’s commentary, for example, emphasizes the privilege of the Gentiles, who were once strangers to the covenants of promise, being made partakers through the gospel.

John Gill mentions that the mystery was hidden from the angels, and now the manifold wisdom of God is made known by the church.

Additionally, contemporary scholars may delve into the implications of Paul's role as a revealer of this mystery and the impact it had on the early church's understanding of inclusion and unity.